Which is smaller, a Dachshund or a Chihuahua?

A Chihuahua is generally the smaller of the two, typically under 3kg, while even a miniature Dachshund usually weighs a little more. A standard Dachshund is noticeably larger again, though still a small breed overall.

Are Dachshunds or Chihuahuas easier to train?

Both breeds can be strong-willed in their own way, and neither is typically the easiest first dog for someone expecting instant obedience. Consistent, patient training works well with both, and neither breed's small size should be mistaken for an easy temperament.

Do Dachshunds or Chihuahuas have more health problems?

Dachshunds are particularly prone to back problems because of their long spine, which is a well-known and significant health consideration for the breed. Chihuahuas have their own considerations, including dental crowding and fragility from their very small size, but do not carry the same spinal risk.

Which breed needs more exercise, a Dachshund or a Chihuahua?

Dachshunds generally need a bit more daily exercise than Chihuahuas, though neither breed needs anywhere near as much as a larger working breed. Both benefit from regular, gentle exercise appropriate to their size and any health considerations.

Are Dachshunds or Chihuahuas better with children?

This depends more on the individual dog and how they are raised and socialised than on the breed alone, though both are small enough that supervision with young children is important to avoid accidental injury to the dog. Neither breed is automatically the better choice without knowing the specific dog and household.

Dachshund vs Chihuahua: how the two breeds compare

Dachshunds and Chihuahuas are both small dogs but suit quite different owners: a Dachshund is a longer-bodied, determined hunting breed with a back that needs protecting, while a Chihuahua is tinier still, often more reserved with strangers, and generally needs less exercise. Neither is simply better — the right one depends on your lifestyle and what you want from a dog.

Size and build

Dachshunds have their distinctive long back and short legs, come in standard and miniature sizes, and typically weigh anywhere from around 4kg for a miniature up to 12kg for a standard. Chihuahuas are one of the smallest recognised breeds, usually weighing under 3kg, with a more compact, proportionate body shape.

The Dachshund's long spine is a genuine health consideration — the breed is prone to back problems, including slipped discs, and needs to be discouraged from jumping on and off furniture. Chihuahuas do not carry that particular risk, though their small size brings its own fragility around rough handling or larger dogs.

Temperament

Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals, and that shows in a bold, determined, sometimes stubborn temperament that does not always match their small size. They can be vocal and are often more confident with strangers and other dogs than their size would suggest.

Chihuahuas are often more selectively affectionate, frequently bonding closely with one person and taking longer to warm to strangers or other dogs. Both breeds can be trained well with consistency, but neither is typically the easiest first dog for someone expecting an easygoing, biddable temperament straight away.

Exercise and lifestyle fit

Dachshunds need a moderate amount of daily exercise and do best with owners who can commit to regular walks, while being mindful of activities that put strain on their back, such as excessive jumping or stairs.

Chihuahuas need comparatively little exercise and can thrive in smaller living spaces, including flats, making them a common choice for owners with more limited outdoor access. Both breeds can be prone to getting cold in poor weather given their small size or short coat, and often benefit from a coat on winter walks.

Grooming and health

Smooth-haired Dachshunds need minimal grooming, while long-haired and wire-haired varieties need more regular brushing. Chihuahuas come in smooth and long-coated varieties too, with the long-coated type needing more frequent brushing to prevent tangles.

Beyond the Dachshund's known back problems, both breeds can be prone to dental issues given their small mouths, and a Chihuahua's soft spot on the skull as a puppy is a normal feature in many individuals rather than a defect, though it is worth being gentle with a puppy's head regardless.

Which suits you

A Dachshund tends to suit an owner who wants a bold, characterful dog and is willing to manage the back-health precautions that come with the breed's shape. A Chihuahua tends to suit someone wanting a very small, lower-exercise dog, often in a smaller home, who is prepared for a breed that can take time to warm to new people.

Both breeds are commonly kept as companion dogs rather than working animals in a typical UK household today, and either can make an excellent pet with the right owner — the decision comes down to which combination of size, temperament and care needs actually fits your life.

Common questions

Which is smaller, a Dachshund or a Chihuahua?: A Chihuahua is generally the smaller of the two, typically under 3kg, while even a miniature Dachshund usually weighs a little more. A standard Dachshund is noticeably larger again, though still a small breed overall.
Are Dachshunds or Chihuahuas easier to train?: Both breeds can be strong-willed in their own way, and neither is typically the easiest first dog for someone expecting instant obedience. Consistent, patient training works well with both, and neither breed's small size should be mistaken for an easy temperament.
Do Dachshunds or Chihuahuas have more health problems?: Dachshunds are particularly prone to back problems because of their long spine, which is a well-known and significant health consideration for the breed. Chihuahuas have their own considerations, including dental crowding and fragility from their very small size, but do not carry the same spinal risk.
Which breed needs more exercise, a Dachshund or a Chihuahua?: Dachshunds generally need a bit more daily exercise than Chihuahuas, though neither breed needs anywhere near as much as a larger working breed. Both benefit from regular, gentle exercise appropriate to their size and any health considerations.
Are Dachshunds or Chihuahuas better with children?: This depends more on the individual dog and how they are raised and socialised than on the breed alone, though both are small enough that supervision with young children is important to avoid accidental injury to the dog. Neither breed is automatically the better choice without knowing the specific dog and household.

Sources

Written against guidance published by UK veterinary and welfare organisations. Always confirm specifics with your own vet.

Blue Cross — Pet advice

Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.